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Watch the full interview here -- https://youtu.be/tWxX5hyTwf4
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The desire to be wealthy is natural.
The desire to be Christlike takes a little more effort.
Striking the balance between desiring wealth and being Christlike isn’t easy. Riches and the material things that only money can buy can quickly become idols if we don’t keep ourselves in check. Many even feel that being Christlike means living in scarcity.
That being said, making tithing a priority on top of other financial decisions can become difficult for believers. Fear can also motivate us not to be as generous, especially during an economic downturn. Finally, those who have experienced tough financial times may develop a “scarcity mindset.”
Ken Schafer, Stewardship Minister at Brentwood Baptist Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, encourages Christians (especially Pastors) to simply look to Scripture and be reminded of our call to give and manage our money.
“Giving is simply a call of obedience. Mark 2 is a great example of how we can manage our money in a way that honors Jesus, even when times are tough.”
The Scriptures challenge us to remember where our financial blessings come from in the first place:
“My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:19
But the responsibility to encourage generosity from the pulpit can be a difficult task for pastors. Many church leaders fear coming across as self-serving or greedy.
How can you ask for more with people already struggling?
What if I am struggling myself to give?
“I have a theory that giving is also difficult for pastors to talk about because they themselves struggle with giving. Maybe they don’t feel they can talk about something they have difficulty doing themselves.” - Ken Schafer
“Giving is simply a call of obedience.” - Ken Schafer
The Bible promises us that “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” - Proverbs 11:24
It is never too late to start giving - even if you are a pastor.
